The purpose of this calendar is to address and support the diversity of all University employees. We recognize that by increasing our understanding of diverse cultures, traditions, values and beliefs we can enhance our relationships with one another, and become a culturally responsive environment for everyone to feel valued and respected.

Due to the extensive number of cultural holidays, dates for this calendar were determined by the following five criteria:

Will an employee be absent as a result of this day?

Will an employee be disengaged as a result of this day? (e.g., hunger or a negative association with a particular day/date such as a day of remembrance of a tragic event)

Will an employee not be able to participate in a work-related function as a result of this day? (e.g., Employees may not participate in Halloween or Valentine’s Day).

Are there employees who may not participate in events that are scheduled on the day of an important religious day observed by certain communities?

Does the day provide an opportunity for a teachable moment regarding ethnic or cultural diversity that might not otherwise be discussed, particularly those dates associated with a continued history of oppression, discrimination, or racism?

Work in Progress

We ask for your patience in the event that we have missed any important dates that meet the criteria. If you know of another date that meets the above criteria and should be included or if there is a date listed that does not meet the criteria and should not be included, please contact the Office of Diversity and Equity at (203) 837-8278. We welcome your input. If you know of additional resources, please let us know. Conversely, please inform us of any websites that we may have chosen to explain a particular day, which may be culturally insensitive

Best practices for using this calendar as a tool

Celebrate heritage or history months or other cultural days with speakers, displays, and special foods.

Keep these dates in mind when scheduling classes, work, deadlines, meetings, and events.

Give consideration that a scheduled event might exclude individuals or unintentionally force them to participate in certain events.

Office of Intercultural Affairs

The Office of Intercultural Affairs coordinates programs, support services, and activities for various student clubs/associations that enhance the educational experience of a diverse student population.

These websites are subject to change without our knowledge, so please report broken or non-functioning links to the University Office of Diversity and Equity at (203) 837-8278.

Peer to Peer Mentor Program (Coming Soon)

The Multicultural Office coordinates a peer mentor initiative, based on recruiting current Western Connecticut State University students every semester, who can help other new and/or transfer students navigate the University system and connect with campus resources. Peer Mentors build meaningful relationships with students through peer-to-peer guidance and support.